Union Boss on Walker: ‘We’re Going to Kick His Ass’

WASHINGTON – Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees trade union, said his members are energized heading into Election Day, and ready to defeat Republican governors seeking to take away collective bargaining.

“Knock on those doors. Make those phone calls. Convince folks that it’s important to have your voices heard on November 4th. It’s important to vote because we understand those challenges. We understand folks are trying to take away retirement security for millions of Americans,” Saunders said in a speech at the Campaign for America’s Future Awards gala on Tuesday evening.

“We understand that governors across this country are trying to steal our voices and take collective bargaining away from public service workers. I’ve got to tell you, our members are energized and they’re fighting back,” he added.

AFSCME represents 1.6 million members. According to UnionFacts.com, Saunders earned a salary of $350,058 in 2013.

Walker, the current Republican governor of Wisconsin, is locked in a tight race with Democrat Mary Burke.

Saunders, who received the America’s Future Progressive Champion award at the event, called on the audience to rededicate themselves to the progressive movement.

“We’ve got to hold on to the Senate. We’ve got to motivate our folks to understand the importance of that election,” Saunders said.

The Campaign for America’s Future also recognized New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio with the America’s Future Progressive Champion award.

“Campaign for America’s Future and I share some major concerns, including combating the nation’s growing income inequality. It is truly the crisis of our time,” he said. “Too many hardworking families are struggling, with the buying power of minimum wage less than it was in 1964. And a single parent working full-time at federal minimum wage makes just $14,500—which is $1,230 below the poverty line.”

De Blasio said New York City is leading by example.

“Just last month, more than 50,000 4-year-olds entered a classroom for the first time. Next year, we’ll have ‘Pre-K for All,’ with over 70,000 seats for our youngest learners,” he said. “But pre-K is only the beginning—we’re building a comprehensive set of supports.”

De Blasio’s staff would not allow press to ask the mayor any questions at the event.